Within Reach Program on Careers in Health Care Set for Nov. 21

Within Reach will provide how-tos for individuals wishing to pursue a career in health care.

The next Within Reach program in Roanoke will shed light on the depth and breadth of health care career options and what it takes to get there.

The Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine is teaming up with the Jefferson College of Health Sciences, Virginia Western Community College, and Virginia Tech’s Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health program to help area students understand what health care educational offerings are available in the Roanoke and New River Valleys — and to realize that a health care career is within their reach.

Representatives from each of the schools will discuss a range of health care careers and offer tips on preparing for these training programs. The event will take place Nov. 21, from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, located at 2 Riverside Circle in Roanoke. An information fair starts at 6 p.m.

School representatives will highlight more than two dozen academic programs, including those that lead to a certificate in medical laboratory science or practical nursing; an associate degree in such fields as respiratory therapy or surgical technology; a bachelor’s degree in a range of fields, including emergency services or health care management; a master’s degree in such fields as nursing; a doctoral degree in translational medicine; or a medical degree. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentations.

“We’re hoping to reach students who never even considered a career in health care as a possibility,” said David Trinkle, associate dean for community and culture at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine. “This includes high school and college students as well as mid-career professionals.

Participants will learn that many different professions are within their reach, and that once they get a job in health care, their futures abound with many more opportunities.”

Also invited to attend are teachers, school counselors, and parents.

The event is free. Ample parking is available. In case of inclement weather, the program will be held Nov. 28, at the same time and place.